Former F1 team boss makes switch to Hyundai: 'I can't wait'

The Frenchman will look after the FIA World Rally Championship and Customer Racing programmes. He brings with him a lot of experience as former F1 team boss of Caterham and Renault, much to Hyundai's delight. Last year, Abiteboul was an advisor at F2 engine supplier Mecachrome.

“I am relishing the opportunity to join Hyundai Motorsport as Team Principal. In motorsport, like in the rest of their activities, the Hyundai brand is cautiously building its leadership. I am excited at the prospect of being part of it, managing the WRC and Customer Racing programs, where the team has already proven to be strong competitors. I am looking forward to immersing myself into the rallying community and discovering more about this spectacular sport. Hyundai has given me its full support to make the transition into this role a smooth one. I can’t wait to get started,” Abiteboul said.

Hassles with Red Bull and McLaren

Abiteboul suffered a number of setbacks in his final years at Renault: the team lost its position as engine supplier to Red Bull Racing, which opted for Honda (and which led to some bickering with Christian Horner), and McLaren, who dove into a partnership with Mercedes. The French team lost a major source of revenue and deteriorated in performance. Abiteboul eventually left the team in 2021.